Netflix's Dating Around is not only enjoyable but elegant, genuine and relatable. Many viewers would agree that this dating reality show is actually based on reality and showcases real people looking out for suitable partners.
Unlike many reality shows, this series features some really touching heart to heart conversations. We see cast members are really nervous when they first meet their blind date. Throughout the night, they exchange stories and ask many questions to build a rapport with each other. Each participant is polite and puts their best foot forward, just like we all do. There are awkward pauses, moments of banter, gushing joy as well as rejections - every expression and move seems organic and not fabricated for the screens. Kudos to the show's production team, who planned their camera set up in such a way that it didn't intimidate the participants and let them remain the way they are.
Instead of an over the top and extravagant set or locations, these dates take place in New Orleans's beautiful restaurants and bars - exactly where daters like to go out in this modern age. The city that is known for its round-the-clock nightlife worked perfectly as the backdrop for every episode. For a brief moment, we even forget that it's a reality show because it gives us such a real-life experience, especially when couples are seen walking on the streets, holding hands, and gradually approaching for kisses.
Several viewers don't enjoy watching those fiery and manipulated on-camera confessions in 90 day fiance or Too Hot To Handle. Maybe that's why we don't find any confessionals in this series, which is like a breath of fresh air. The creators of the show carefully designed the format and didn't include any exaggerated behind the scenes drama. Plus, there was no mocking of daters to churn out funny content, which looked like a pretty bold step and could have easily repulsed the audience. In an interview, the co-creator of the show, Chris Culvenor, said, "We didn't want (daters) to sit down and say something outrageous, like in a 2005 reality show."
So, if you want to take some time off of watching overblown, melodramatic dating reality shows and watch something calm and compelling, then this is the show for you. Within 30 minutes, you will watch a love story unfold and meet some authentic people. At the same time, there is a good chance that you will catch some great pickup lines or conversation starters for your next date. Break a leg!
Dating Around season 2 is available to stream on Netflix.